WilCo Courts Begin Reopening As Eviction Moratoriums Are Lifted

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TX — Courts in Williamson County are poised to reopen as a moratorium on evictions during spread of the coronavirus is lifted, officials said on Tuesday.

"As Williamson County continues to reopen businesses, the Williamson County justice courts are preparing to open their courtrooms as well," officials wrote in an email. "The eviction moratorium issued by the Texas Supreme Court ended on May 18. In order to proceed with an eviction, a plaintiff must include in their petition a statement that the eviction case is not subject to the Federal CARES Act."

Moreover, all Williamson County Justices of the Peace are in agreement that JP court hearings will not begin in Williamson County until after June 15, unless the case is considered an "imminent threat," officials said. Jury trials will not commence until further guidance has been received by the Office of Court Administration, officials added.

Each Justice of the Peace Judge and their personnel have been actively working on processes and protocols to successfully reopen the Justice Courts in their respective precincts, according to an advisory. "Much thought has been given to the safety of those who will be required to attend court," officials asserted.

Williamson County Justice of the Peace Precinct 3 Judge Evelyn McLean said she plans to hold court remotely and defendants will be notified with instructions on how to attend their virtual court hearing. JP1 Judge KT Musselman and JP4 Judge Stacy Hackenberg also plan to hold court remotely. JP2 Judge Edna Staudt will hold court in person.

More information should be available in the coming weeks on the county website www.wilco.org on each court’s webpage and social media platforms.